EVA latest in DoJ jaws

TAIWAN-based EVA Airways has become the latest cargo airline to plead guilty to US Department of Justice charges for price-fixing.

The company will pay US$13.2 million for its participation in a conspiracy to fix cargo base rates or fees charged to customers for certain international air shipments.

The illegal activity ran from as early as January 2003 until 14 February 2006.

A total of 22 airlines and 21 executives have been charged as a result of the department’s investigation. To date, more than $1.8 billion in criminal fines have been imposed and four executives have been sentenced to serve prison time.

EVA transports sensitive equipment used to manufacture liquid crystal display (LCD) panels, perishable commodities and consumer goods on scheduled flights within Taiwan and internationally, including to and from the US.